Stronger

This is one of 7 columns benefitting from major anti-seismic retrofitting and the reason I'm in Kobe instead of spending a decadent summer shopping and sightseeing.

They don't look particularly glamorous or sexy but I'm told they will allow the main building to be used as an earthquake shelter.

Whilst I'm investing a sizable amount of yen in this project I'm sincerely hoping I never get to experience any of the benefits.